It is not always that the Council attends farewell events at MUT to pay tribute to retiring staff. The gesture by Dr Mosidi Makgae, who could not attend to prior commitments, speaks volumes, first about her EQ levels and her deeper insights of how MUT research rose under complex circumstances. Representing Dr Makgae was Connie Mametja, Deputy Chairperson. Mametja reflected that this was not simply a farewell, but a celebration of a remarkable legacy. She said, “Dr Mienie did not merely occupy a leadership position; she built foundations. She established systems, nurtured generations of researchers, mentored young academics, and played a pivotal role in cultivating the vibrant research culture that defines MUT today.”
Mametja further said, “At a time when research was not yet central to the mission of universities of technology, Dr Mienie recognised that MUT had to become a creator of knowledge and innovation. Through patience, resilience, strategic leadership, and quiet determination, she helped transform that vision into reality. She also added that “Dr Mienie’s contribution extended well beyond research. She served the University with distinction whenever called upon, including as Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Acting Vice-Chancellor, always leading with humility, integrity, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to the institution.
As the Deputy Chairperson aptly noted, true leadership is measured not only by achievements but by the legacy one leaves behind. Dr Mienie’s legacy lives on in the scholars she has mentored, the systems she strengthened, the research excellence she championed, and the confidence she inspired in others. “On behalf of the Council and the entire University community, we extend our deepest gratitude to Dr Mienie for her outstanding service and wish her good health, happiness, and every success in this exciting new chapter. Though she retires from her official duties, her name and her legacy will forever remain part of the MUT story. As MUT, we say, “Thank you, Dr Annette Mienie. We honour you. We salute you.”